Colorado Hatch Green Chili With Pinto Beans

Introducing a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures, this Colorado Hatch Green Chili with Pinto Beans recipe is a hearty homage to Southwestern cuisine. Tender cubes of boneless pork loin are infused with the rich, smoky essence of Hatch green chilis, complemented by the subtle heat of jalapeños and the earthy sweetness of pinto beans.

Simmered in a savory broth and accented with aromatic garlic and onions, each spoonful promises a burst of Southwestern flair. Whether served as a comforting meal on a chilly evening or shared at a festive gathering, this dish is sure to captivate taste buds and evoke the spirit of the Rocky Mountains.

Colorado Hatch Green Chili With Pinto Beans

Ingredients

2 tablespoon olive oil

2 lbs boneless pork loin, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 cup chopped onion

5 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup tapioca flour, (can also use cornstarch)

1 28-oz can diced tomatoes

2 28-oz cans chopped hatch green chilis

1 fresh jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced

1 teaspoon salt , to taste

32 oz chicken broth

2 cans Bush’s Best Pinto Beans

Instructions

Drizzle and heat olive oil in a stockpot. Add pork cubes and lightly brown.

Stir in minced garlic and chopped onion. Add the tapioca flour and stir well to coat the meat. Cook over medium heat, stirring for 2-3 minutes.

Add the tomatoes, green chilies, jalapeño, and salt.

Pour in the chicken broth. Stir in the pinto beans and mix well. Bring to a boil.

Cover and simmer for 1 hour.

Add more salt or hot sauce as desired.

Notes:

Pork Loin: Opt for boneless pork loin for its tender texture when cooked and its ability to absorb the flavors of the chili.

Onion and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients serve as the flavor base, enhancing the overall taste profile of the dish.

Tapioca Flour: Used as a thickening agent, tapioca flour coats the meat, contributing to a rich and hearty texture. Cornstarch can be a suitable alternative if preferred.

Hatch Green Chilis: The star ingredient, providing a distinctive smoky flavor with a mild to moderate level of heat. Canned varieties offer convenience without compromising on taste.

Jalapeño Pepper: Adds an additional layer of heat and a fresh, vibrant flavor to the chili. Adjust the quantity according to personal preference for spiciness.

Chicken Broth: Serves as the liquid base, infusing the dish with savory notes and ensuring a flavorful broth.

Pinto Beans: Bush’s Best Pinto Beans, when added to the chili, offer a creamy texture and a nutty flavor, complementing the pork and green chili combination.

Simmering: Allowing the chili to simmer for an hour ensures that the flavors meld together harmoniously while the pork becomes tender.

Seasoning: Salt is added to taste, ensuring the chili reaches the desired level of seasoning. Additional hot sauce can be incorporated for those who crave extra heat. Adjust seasoning according to personal preference.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1 cup

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of pork loin?

Yes, you can substitute other meats like chicken or beef if you prefer.

Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

Are hatch green chilis spicy?

Hatch green chilis can vary in spiciness.

Some are mild, while others can be quite hot.

Taste a small piece of the chili before adding it to gauge its spiciness, and adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

Can I use fresh green chilis instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh green chilis if they are available.

Roast and peel them before chopping.

The flavor may be slightly different from canned chilis, but it can add a fresh twist to the dish.

Is tapioca flour necessary, or can I use cornstarch instead?

You can use cornstarch as a substitute for tapioca flour.

Both work as thickeners in the recipe.

Use them interchangeably based on your preference and what you have on hand.

What can I serve with Green Chili with Pinto Beans?

This dish can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, tortillas, crusty bread, or even a simple salad.

You can also garnish it with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro to enhance the flavors.

What is the difference between tapioca flour and cornstarch, and can I use either in this recipe?

Tapioca flour and cornstarch are both used as thickeners in cooking.

They are generally interchangeable in most recipes, including this one.

You can use either based on your preference or what you have available.

How spicy will this dish be with the addition of jalapeño and green chilis?

The spice level can vary depending on the type of jalapeño and green chilis used.

If you want a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño or choose milder green chilis

. Taste the dish as you cook and adjust the spice level to your liking.

Can I make this recipe in advance and reheat it?

Yes, you can make this dish in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

In fact, many stews and chili-type dishes, like this one, often taste even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.

What are some optional toppings or garnishes for this Green Chili with Pinto Beans?

Some popular toppings and garnishes include shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime.

These additions can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

What sides go well with Green Chili with Pinto Beans?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as rice, tortillas, cornbread, or a simple green salad.

The choice of side dishes can complement the flavors and make it a complete meal.